Team up tunic sweaters with stockings

Stay warm and trendy, experiment with sexy stockings this winter. You can make your attire stand out and fashionable with different types of stockings, from prints, neon solid colours, textured, sheer, woollen stockings or the good old fish nets.

Staple winter accessory, stockings add style to your look and keep you warm too. You can make your attire stand out and fashionable with different types of stockings, from prints, neon solid colours, textured, sheer, woollen stockings or the good old fish nets. “One of the most trendy looks for a stocking this season is the grungy torn look. Even a drabby dress gets an edgy feel by pairing them together,” says fashion designer Anand Bhushan.

While buying, ensure the quality of the fabric and brand of the stockings. But you should keep in mind that you are not allergic to the fabric of the stockings you buy.

Wear them rightThe classic styles of black and nude in sheer and opaque are always in style and go well with any type of skirts, dresses, tunic or shorts. But when you wear printed stocking such as stripes, floral and checks, make sure that your complete outfit is not that busy or printed. “Printed dresses go well with plain colourful or textured stockings. It’s risque-free to wear bright colour tights with one tone dresses and ankle boots,” says fashion stylist Aakanksha Jain.

TriviaThe first ever nylon stocking was made in 1940 before which woman only wore silk stockings. A new trend in stockings started after the end of World War II in the ’60s with the introduction of pantihose. Until then, stockings were worn with garter belts or girdles. These stockings were held up with clasps attached to the girdle or garter belt.

Where to buy stockings in cityFloral-printed pantihose looks great with a single tone tunic or dressPrice: R799Available at: Marks & Spencer,The Great India Place, Noida

Different types of stockingsPantihose: Stockings worn till the waist that covers the feet as well.Opaque: These are made of a heavier yarn that gives an opaque look.Sheer: Brought back in style by Kate Middleton, these are skin-hued and give a nude appearance.Ankle-length: These come in pantihose styles but end at the ankle.Thigh highs: Stockings that end mid-thigh.Sandal toe: These have a nude toe but a heavier yarn in the leg.Fishnets: Stockings that have a wide open knit like a fishnet.Open-toed: These stop at the toe base with a fabric piece extended to reach between the first and second toes.Trompe l'oeil: French for ‘trick the eye’ these have an illusion of lace, or a garter.Seamed: Stockings with a fake seam at the back.

What is denier count?Stockings come in various fabrics such as nylon, polyester, viscose, wool mix, lace, etc. But to know its level of transparency, the denier count is important. A stocking with a 10-20 denier has transparency levels. While a stocking knitted with a higher denier i.e. 20 denier onwards, will be less sheer and more durable. A 40 denier is an opaque stocking.